Effects of a supplement containing hyaluronan with <scp>TBG</scp>‐136™ schizophyllan β‐glucan on gastric ulcer scores in horses

Summary Background Polysaccharides, hyaluronan and TBG‐136™ Schizophyllan (Sβ‐glucan) have not been thoroughly evaluated in horses with equine squamous gastric disease (ESGD) or equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD). Objectives To evaluate the effect of hyaluronan with Sβ‐glucan ([RELGI] Relyne GI® , Hagyard Pharmacy, Lexington, KY) on ESGD and EGGD in stall‐confined horses. Study Design Single period non‐crossover. Methods Healthy adult thoroughbreds ( n = 12) were divided into RELGI ([ N = 6], 30 mL gel) or control ([ N = 6], 30 mL gel) groups and fed 3× daily for 35 days. The horses were stratified by ESGD ulcer score on Day −1, and gastroscopy was repeated on Days 14, 21, 28 and 35. ESGD number and severity (NGN and NGS) and EGGD number and severity (GN and GS) scores were assigned at scoping by a masked clinician. Gastric fluid pH and bodyweight were measured. Results The median ESGD scores were lower on Day 28 in the RELGI group (median: 1.0, IQR: 1.0–1.0), compared to the control group (median: 1.5, IQR: 1.0–2.25; p = 0.037). The median NGN and NGS scores were lower on Days 28 and 35 in the RELGI group (median: 0; IQR: 0–0) than in controls. On Day 28, NGN had a median of 1.0 (IQR: 0–2.5) and NGS had a median of 1.0 (IQR: 0–2.25). On Day 35, NGN had a median of 0.5 (IQR: 0–2.25) and NGS had a median of 1.0 (IQR: 0–2.5). ESGD ulcers healed in the treatment group on the same days. EGGD was low, so statistical analysis was not reported. Gastric fluid pH was low and horses gained weight. Main Limitation Thoroughbred horses had very mild EGGD lesions. Conclusions The supplement Relyne GI® was palatable and safe. Relyne GI® administration resulted in improvement in stomach health without altering stomach pH and might be an adjunct to pharmacologic treatment for ESGD.